Argentina tours & travel

Visitors come to Argentina and fall in love with the leafy boulevards, hip galleries, elegant architecture and effortlessly smooth citizens of Buenos Aires.

But it's important not to forget the other delights of Argentina - the Pampas that remain the realm of the gauchos, the icy wilds of Patagonia, thundering Iguazu Falls and the vineyards of Mendoza. Argentina's captivating cavalcade of natural environments is simply astounding.

Best time to visit Argentina

Best time to visit Argentina

Argentina's temperate climate means it experiences four distinct seasons. Summer (December to February) is the best time for visiting Patagonia as the weather is at its mildest. In contrast, summer can be very hot and humid in Buenos Aires, with spring and autumn offering milder weather. Autumn is a good time to visit Mendoza, Cordoba and the Lake District. The busiest times to travel in Argentina are during the main vacations - January, February and July.

Geography and environment

Geography and environment

Bordered by Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay, Argentina is South America's second largest country. With a vast range of natural environments, travelling in Argentina presents a revolving door of terrain and landscapes. From the giant glaciers and icy lakes of Patagonia to the green grasslands of the Pampas; and the lofty Andes of the north to the steamy wetlands of the north-east, Argentina contains a wealth of biodiversity.

Top picks

Top picks

Top 5 Tango Spots of Argentina

1. Confiteria Ideal

Be charmed by the grand building, old waiters, genuine tango classes and shows that this Buenos Aires institution has been producing for more than 100 years. It might be a bit rough around the edges but authenticity is guaranteed in this historic gem.

2. Barrancas de Belgrano

On the weekends, head to this leafy park at dusk to see unpretentious locals tango as the sun sets. Try out your tango steps, mix and mingle with Argentines and tourists, and enjoy the casual, fun vibe that proliferates under the park's gazebo.

3. Plaza Dorrego

This relaxed San Telmo favourite is a top spot for alfresco people-watching, tango viewing, wine drinking and socialising.

4. La Catedral

For a slice of old Argentina, head to this bewitching warehouse of kitsch where you can learn the art of tango with locals amid walls of old posters and a giant glowing, red heart. Lessons are taught in Spanish and while the dancers here may not be technically great, their passion and love of tango is unquestionable.

5. Caminito

Purists may dismiss La Boca's showy street performers as 'tacky tangoists' but the colourful streets, flamboyant moves and suave outfits do have a bit of flair and provide quintessential Buenos Aires photo ops.

Health and safety

Health and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

Handy links

Handy links

Argentina travel FAQs

ARGENTINA RECIPROCITY TAX:

The Argentine government charges a reciprocity tax which applies to Canadian, US and Australian citizens. The amounts are as follows:
Australians - US$100 (multiple entry for up to 1 year from date of issue)
Canadians - US$92 (multiple entry for up to 5 years from date of issue)
Americans - US$160 (multiple entry for up to 10 years from date of issue)

This fee can only be paid on line through the following website:
https://virtual.provinciapagos.com.ar/ArgentineTaxes/

For instructions on how to process this payment, please visit:
http://cnyor.mrecic.gov.ar/userfiles/Online_payment_instructions_0.pdf

A receipt for this payment must be produced at every border crossing into Argentina.

With the highest number of internet users in Latin America, accessing the internet isn't usually a problem in Argentina. Large cities have Wi-Fi hot spots and cyber cafes, but be prepared for less coverage in remote or rural areas.

Mobile phone coverage is very good in Argentina's cities but less reliable when travelling in mountainous or remote areas. If you wish to use your mobile phone, ensure global roaming is activated before leaving home.

Depending on where in Argentina you are travelling, tourists can expect to encounter both squat toilets and modern flushable toilets. It's a good idea to carry your own soap and toilet paper as these aren't always provided in public toilets.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Argentina's large cities and towns, especially VISA and Mastercard. Keep in mind that credit cards may not be accepted so readily in small towns and rural areas, so always have alternative payment methods available.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

Responsible Travel

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for Argentina

Be considerate of Argentina’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water.

Always dispose of litter thoughtfully, including cigarette butts.

Learn some local language and don't be afraid to use it - simple greetings will help break the ice.